Verticale distractieosteogenese van de extreem geresorbeerde edentate onderkaak. Een retrospectieve beschrijving van 16 patiënten.

This study's objective is to assess long-term results of vertical distraction osteogenesis for the extremely resorbed edentulous mandible by clinically measuring and taking x-rays from the beginning of the treatment of 16 subsequent patients to its final moment in the follow up period (ranging from 2-62 months). Bone height, nerve sensitivity, complications and loss of implant were registered. Average bone resorption after 3 years was 11.2%. Out of 16 patients 5 experienced sensory nerve disturbance; 3 suffered complications. The implant success rate was 89.2%. Distraction osteogenesis appears to be a reliable technique, with which stable bone tissue is developed. Risk of sensory nerve disturbance and complications however, must be taken into consideration.